What the Latest Studies Are Exploring
As interest in food-based approaches to women's wellbeing continues to grow, seed cycling has attracted attention for its potential to support women’s health through diet.
While research is still emerging, 2024 brought several new studies exploring how consuming specific seeds in a structured way may relate to cycle patterns and hormonal markers, particularly among participants with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
This article summarises publicly available findings and discusses how they add to the broader conversation about food, cycles, and women's wellness. While this research is promising, it’s important to note that seed cycling is not a treatment, cure, or therapy. As always, individuals should speak with a healthcare professional for personal health advice.
What is Seed Cycling?
Seed cycling is a nutritional practice that involves consuming four types of seeds—flax, pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame—during different phases of the menstrual or lunar cycle. This tradition is based on the idea that certain nutrients in these seeds can support cyclical wellbeing when incorporated into a balanced diet.
Many people choose seed cycling as part of a broader wellness routine, particularly those looking to support their body through natural monthly rhythms or life transitions. While more research is needed, the practice continues to gain interest among nutrition-conscious individuals and practitioners alike.
New Research: 2024 Updates
Study 1: A Small Observational Study in Women with PCOS
Ajith & Meera (2024) conducted a 3-month observational study involving 30 women diagnosed with PCOS under the Rotterdam Criteria. Participants consumed a combination of four seeds daily. Researchers tracked changes in menstrual regularity, body weight, and hormonal markers.
While not peer-reviewed and limited in scope, the study reported improvements in some of these markers. The authors proposed that the nutrient profiles of seeds may play a role in supporting menstrual health, though larger studies would be needed to draw conclusions.
Study 2: Randomised Controlled Trial on Seed Cycling and Hormonal Indicators
A larger 2024 RCT involving 290 women compared two groups: one receiving Metformin and a portion-controlled diet, and the other following a portion-controlled diet with seed cycling. The seed cycling group showed percentage changes in several hormonal markers such as FSH, LH, and Prolactin.
These findings are early-stage and should be interpreted with care. They add to the growing interest in studying how diet may influence hormonal pathways, though no clinical recommendations can yet be made based on this research alone.
What the Research Tells Us So Far
While seed cycling as a complete method has limited formal research, individual components (such as flaxseed, sunflower seeds, and sesame lignans) have been studied for their nutritional properties. For example:
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Flaxseed has been linked to potential effects on ovulation in some small studies
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Phytoestrogens in plant foods are of ongoing interest for their dietary impact on hormones
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Dietary fibre, lignans, and essential fatty acids from seeds are recognised for supporting general health
Our Perspective
At The Seed Cycle, we believe that food is a powerful tool for supporting daily wellbeing. We’re proud to offer certified organic, nutrition-focused products that make seed cycling simple and consistent for those who want to explore this ritual as part of their lifestyle.
We also collaborate with a growing number of nutrition professionals and health practitioners who use seed cycling as part of broader wellness plans. While our products are not intended to treat or prevent any condition, we’re passionate about sharing new findings and encouraging informed, balanced health choices.
Final Thoughts
Seed cycling continues to spark curiosity, and 2024’s research adds valuable insights to this evolving conversation. While more high-quality studies are needed to make definitive claims, we support thoughtful exploration of how food can complement wellbeing over time.
If you're interested in reading the full studies or accessing summaries from our practitioner community, feel free to reach out at hello@theseedcycle.com.au.
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